"You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.
" The advantage of self-directed learning compared with any other learning method, is that it allows for the individuality of the student to surface.
It is the most effective way of learning anything, because it allows the student to design a tailor made learning plan that will adjust perfectly to his or her schedule, financial situation, and personal requirements.
But where's the best place to start? Here are seven steps you can follow to design your own learning process:

1. Revive those dreams.
   Every great achievement started with a dream, and there is one lurking deep down in your heart right now.
   This dream will give you a long term vision to aim for.
   This is what will keep you on track when the going gets tough.
   
2. This vision is your goal.
   Someone once said, "A goal is a dream with a deadline.
   " If we do not establish a goal, the probability of accomplishing anything diminishes greatly.
   It is time to make a plan.
   A goal is a planned for event, and planning is predetermining a course of events.
   
3. Then you will have to establish intermediate goals.
   Start planning realistic deadlines of when you want to achieve each intermediate goal.
   Write them down, and commit yourself to them.
   When a goal is valued, it becomes a priority.
   
4. Search for adequate resources and good mentors.
   Once you have identified an area you want to develop yourself in, you will have to gain more knowledge about it.
   You will need good resources and trustworthy mentors to guide you in the process.
   A mentor doesn't necessarily have to be a person, you can start out with a book or a course.
   The Internet is a great source nowadays.
   
5. Start today! Don't despise small beginnings.
   It will take work, and effort, and a lot of patience, but it is the only way to make a consistent change in your life.
   If you feel overwhelmed, run to God, He will give you strength and wisdom to keep on pushing.
   
6. Find a master-mind group of like-minded people.
   Remember that others are going through the same process you are going through, and are more than willing to lend you a hand and help you on your way.
   Forums on the Internet are an excellent option.
   You can find them on Google under your subject of choice.
   
7. Fall in love with your learning, and have a lot of fun in the process.
   This is really what it is all about.
   Sometimes we are so focused on tomorrow, that we forget about enjoying today.